A Vegan Diet Cannot Save Our Planet
In the article, “I’m sick of hearing lies about vegan diets- I’m raising my child vegan because I have her best interests at heart”, Jimmy Pierson argues that a vegan diet is necessary for humans and the planet. On the contrary, I argue that a vegan diet is not a healthy necessity for humans and the planet. The vegan diet does not provide the necessary micronutrients that a non-vegan person receives. In addition, by not providing the nutrients from animal by-products, the vegan diet neglects the promotion of proper growth development in the early stages of life which can increase the risk of chronic diseases. Furthermore, a meat-based diet does not drastically effect climate change, instead, it is necessary …show more content…
Biesalski (2005) provides reasons why meat is an important source of nutrients for our body. He claims that meat is important for micronutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamins A and B12, that are needed for normal function of the immune system, the mucous membranes and general metabolism of substrates. As evidence, Biesalski states that meat is a “protein rich and carbohydrate “low” product contributes to a low glycemic index which is assumed to be “beneficial”” (Biesalki, 2005, p.510). Groff & Grooper states that “the primary dietary sources of zinc are red meat, sea food, poultry, grains, dairy, legumes and vegetables” (as cited in Biesalki, 2005, p.515). An optimum zinc intake is recommended for the proper function of the immune system. The two important micronutrients, vitamins A and B12 only occur in meat, and both cannot be compensated for by plant-derived supplements. Andersson et al, Boelsma, Hendriks, & Roza mentions that “the use of dietary supplements often does not meet the recommended intake of vitamin B12” (as cited in Biesalki, 2005, p.516). To improve wellbeing of an individual, “a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, including meat and meat products in moderate quantities, normal body weight and a reasonable amount of exercise represent the best choice” (Biesalki, 2005,
In the article, “I’m sick of hearing lies about vegan diets- I’m raising my child vegan because I have her best interests at heart”, Jimmy Pierson argues that a vegan diet is necessary for humans and the planet. On the contrary, I argue that a vegan diet is not a healthy necessity for humans and the planet. The vegan diet does not provide the necessary micronutrients that a non-vegan person receives. In addition, by not providing the nutrients from animal by-products, the vegan diet neglects the promotion of proper growth development in the early stages of life which can increase the risk of chronic diseases. Furthermore, a meat-based diet does not drastically effect climate change, instead, it is necessary …show more content…
Biesalski (2005) provides reasons why meat is an important source of nutrients for our body. He claims that meat is important for micronutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamins A and B12, that are needed for normal function of the immune system, the mucous membranes and general metabolism of substrates. As evidence, Biesalski states that meat is a “protein rich and carbohydrate “low” product contributes to a low glycemic index which is assumed to be “beneficial”” (Biesalki, 2005, p.510). Groff & Grooper states that “the primary dietary sources of zinc are red meat, sea food, poultry, grains, dairy, legumes and vegetables” (as cited in Biesalki, 2005, p.515). An optimum zinc intake is recommended for the proper function of the immune system. The two important micronutrients, vitamins A and B12 only occur in meat, and both cannot be compensated for by plant-derived supplements. Andersson et al, Boelsma, Hendriks, & Roza mentions that “the use of dietary supplements often does not meet the recommended intake of vitamin B12” (as cited in Biesalki, 2005, p.516). To improve wellbeing of an individual, “a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, including meat and meat products in moderate quantities, normal body weight and a reasonable amount of exercise represent the best choice” (Biesalki, 2005,